INTEGRATED PRELIMINARY ASSESSMENT OF WATER QUALITY AND ECOLOGICAL FEATURES OF THE KRUPA RIVER (REPUBLIC OF SRPSKA, BiH)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63356/asb.2026.002Keywords:
benthic invertebrates, fish assemblages, running waters, saprobic status, biotic indices, anthropogenic pressureAbstract
The Krupa River, a left tributary of the Vrbas, is exposed to various anthropogenic pressures, but due to its hydromorphological specificities it represents a suitable model for ecological features’ assessment. The aim of this study was to determine water quality and ecological features by analyzing physicochemical parameters, macrozoobenthos, and ichthyofauna. Sampling was conducted in three sites in autumn 2023 using standard field and laboratory methods. Saprobic status was assessed using the Pantle–Buck index (ichthyofauna), while water quality based on macrozoobenthos was evaluated using the Trent Biotic Index. Most physicochemical parameters indicated water of quality classes I–II. Analysis of macrozoobenthos revealed 14 taxa at the spring, 12 above the waterfalls, and 11 near the confluence. The dominance of the genus Gammarus confirmed stable microhabitats, while the higher abundance of Chironomidae near the confluence indicated increased organic load. Values of the Trent Biotic Index were VIII at the spring and VII at the other two sites. The ichthyofauna comprised six fish species, dominated by brown trout (Salmo trutta), a reliable indicator of clean, well-oxygenated waters. The Pantle–Buck saprobic index (0.91) confirmed oligosaprobic conditions, corresponding to class I water quality. The results showed that the Krupa River, despite anthropogenic pressures, retains the characteristics of very good water quality. At the same time, they emphasize the importance of continuous monitoring in safeguarding water quality and protecting that aquatic ecosystem.
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